Book Battle: Diary of A Wimpy Kid, Middle School & Tom Gates

Which is the best school set series?

Back when I was in year 4, I started reading the Diary of A Wimpy Kid series of books by Jeff Kinney and have since read all thirteen in the series. I was first tempted to read the books because I read the second book at a local library, liked it and wanted to read more. The tales of Greg Heffley in his first year at middle school capture the worries and weirdness of leaving primary school for secondary school (I know middle school isn't quite the same as secondary school, but it's pretty similar). Although Greg is supposed to be 12 or 13 in the books, the stories are much more suitable for under 12s and with all of the illustrations, they are a pretty easy read.

The Middle School series of books by James Patterson are similar to Wimpy Kid, but they have very different protagonists. Greg from Wimpy Kid can come across as a bit of a self centred spoiled brat, whereas the main character of Middle School, Rafe, actually has some awful stuff happen to him, but always seems to end on a happier note.  Middle School deals with some pretty deep subjects like death and grief, but in an approachable way. I first got into these books when I saw the unusual art style on the front cover and liked it, and when I started reading them I found them hugely readable.

The Tom Gates series by Liz Pichon is aimed more at younger readers (around 8 to 10) with its cartoony pictures and wild antics, it is sort of like a well behaved Horrid Henry. The books are set in primary school, different to the other books we've looked at. This is why it is more appealing to a younger audience as it's a more familiar environment rather than a place they probably don't understand yet. With it's main character, Tom, mainly just mucking about, I think it captures the primary school vibe quite well. I first read this book in about year 3 which is probably around the right time to start them. They are great for kids who are not that into reading normally as there are many pages that are just doodles and illustrations. My younger brother loves these books.

So who wins this battle? For me, it would have to be Middle School, for the main character and it's interesting take on Rafe's 'imaginary friend'. Which is your favourite?